Batteries are essential for powering up your radio controlled vehicle. operation. This goes both for nitro and electric models. Although the engine of a nitro-powered model consumes fuel, the receiver and servos cannot function without battery power.
That said, the battery is an important part of the RC electronics system and a major factor in its performance. If you have ever gone to the track only to discover that the battery dies after 20 minutes, you know how important having a good battery. Thankfully, it doesn’t take a lot to take good care of your batteries and extend the amount of play time you have. The following guide will teach you how to do just that so that you can enjoy an undisturbed experience and prolong the lifespan of your RC car.
Understand the Different Types of Batteries
Remote controlled cars typically feature two types of batteries: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Lithium Polymer (LiPo). Each has special benefits and has different care requirements. If you are not sure which your vehicle uses, check the label on the battery pack or the instructions that came with it.
NiMH
There are high chances you need a NiMH if you bought a ready-to-run (RTR) model with a battery included. Nickel-metal packs are affordable, durable, and do not need a lot of extra maintenance.
They weigh more than a LiPo battery with a comparable voltage and capacity, though, and their voltage progressively drops as the pack is discharged. As each minute passes after you start driving, your car gets slower gradually.
LiPo
Although they are often sold as accessories, LiPo batteries are included in some RTR models. The LiPo battery gives your model more power because it is lighter than a NiMH battery with a comparable voltage and capacity.
The LiPo’s capacity to sustain voltage longer while the pack drains adds to the “feeling of power” (sometimes referred to as “punch”). A LiPo will maintain a constant voltage for the majority of its run before abruptly shutting off at the end of the charge, as opposed to gradually lowering its voltage over the course of the run.
The drawbacks are care and expense. LiPos cost more than NiMH as they need special maintenance to last and be used safely.
Charge Your Batteries Properly
The charger is another important piece of RC electronics. For instance, you run the danger of trickle-charging your battery and breaking the hardware if you use a low-voltage charger that is not compatible with the power levels of your battery.
On the other hand, using the wrong type of charger, overcharging, or allowing the battery to overheat can potentially cause the same issue. Making sure you are using the right charger for your battery is the best course of action.
- LiPo batteries – Use a LiPo-specific charger that is compatible with the number of cells and charging rate of your battery.
- NiMH batteries – Choose NiMH-specific chargers with peak detection, which will prevent overcharging by stopping the charging process as soon as the battery is full.
- Both types of batteries – There are chargers you can adjust for either type if you use both kinds of batteries. Just make sure the charger is configured for the right kind of battery before pressing the “start” button.
Pay Attention to Discharging
Balanced discharge is equally important as correct charging. Respecting discharge levels, which are far too frequently disregarded, can prevent battery degradation and guarantee durability and optimal functioning.
The term “over-discharging” describes the process of draining a battery to the point where it actually exceeds the lower safe voltage limit that the circuitry has established. This can result in shorter run durations, worse performance, or even irreversible damage. The ideal discharge voltage for LiPo and NiMH batteries is 3.0 volts per cell and 1.0 volts per cell, respectively. You can use a battery checker to verify this.
Regular Cleaning
You might be wondering, do RC batteries need cleaning? Yes, they do! If you have never done it before, it may seem like a weird thing, but when it comes to RC car maintenance, it’s actually one of the best practices you can have.
This is due to the fact that when the cars are driven outside, they gather dust, dirt, and filth from the surrounding area and other parts of the vehicle, which might eventually reach the battery. They are not hidden like the batteries in the TV remote control.
The battery and general efficiency of the car are at risk of damage from these contaminants. Luckily, all you have to do is periodically wipe off your batteries with a clean, dry cloth, making sure that no dirt or oil residue builds up. Make sure the battery’s terminals are clean; any corrosive deposits can affect the flow of electricity.
Perform Checks
Frequently inspect your car’s parts to see what is going on, the state of your hardware, and whether you need to make any adjustments, repairs, or replacements. This goes double for everything related to RC car electronics, including the batteries.
Basically, you are searching for any obvious indications of damage, such as leaks, swelling, or punctures, as these could point to serious issues. Keep an eye out for any odd battery activity as well. Abrupt drop in performance may indicate deterioration or damage to the battery.
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